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If you own a car, you know at some point it needs maintenance and repairs. Many vehicle owners opt for the path of do-it-yourself repairs, drawn by the potential to save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, over the course of their car's lifetime. And like a local mechanic, you, too, will require the appropriate parts and tools to make your favorite machine tick (or maybe to stop that irritating ticking noise!).
It used to be that you'd have to drive to the local auto parts store in the hope of finding the right parts for your job. If you're not an expert, auto stores can feel a bit overwhelming (and judgy, if you're a female car owner). But today, online auto parts stores have redefined the landscape.
Sunday, March 23rd
AutoZone, a household name to many, is widely recognized for its iconic jingle and commercials. Established in 1979, this auto parts giant has been a reliable source of automotive components for over four decades.
Over 6,000 physical stores
AutoZone provides both online and in-store shopping options, with over 6,000 physical locations across the United States. Their prices vary for different types of car parts, and they offer regular discounts and changing promotions. Many customers might confuse this store with Advance Auto Parts simply because the brick-and-mortar locations for these two competitors are often built next to or very near one another. On the bright side, this means you'll never struggle to find an AutoZone store if you're in a mechanical pinch.
Solid selection and great search features
Sporting an extensive catalog housing thousands of auto parts, AutoZone offers customers a streamlined online shopping experience. The company provides instant online chat support, ensuring that customers who may be uncertain about their part requirements can easily seek guidance. The online store further simplifies the shopping process by featuring a "Check the Fit" option for most products. This tool enables customers to specify their vehicle's year, make, model, and engine to confirm that the chosen part aligns perfectly with their automobile. If you want, you can begin browsing that way too, so your results are limited only to those that will fit in your car. This feature makes it super easy to shop without doing any extra research. Plus, they offer OEM parts, so you know you're getting the real thing.
Wide range of prices
To get an accurate price comparison among all auto stores we decided to look at their price ranges for three areas of auto repair: replacement parts, performance parts, and oil and fluids. For these categories, we narrowed it down to three key items. These are brake pads for the replacement parts, struts for performance parts, and standard engine oil for the oil and fluids search. Notably, we found a wider range of prices (both low and high) with AutoZone compared to some other companies in our review.
Great price range for low- and high-cost items
Starting off with brake pads, the prices at AutoZone range from $15.49 to $766.99. For shocks, you can find prices from $14.99 to $6,001.99. Finally, for motor oil, you can find options from $2 to $199.99. If you're wondering how prices change for specific cars, we decided to search through those same price ranges with a "test car”. We selected a 2019 Toyota Camry for its average customer base and new-ish manufacturing date. The prices for each category changed slightly:
Local or online shopping options
AutoZone's widespread presence extends to more than 6,000 brick-and-mortar locations across the United States. This extensive network allows customers to choose between their shopping methods. Whether you want the convenience of online purchasing or the in-person experience, AutoZone is there for you. Plus, this allows customers to pick up their online orders in-store which can reduce shipping costs and timelines. This approach eliminates the need for extensive searches, so that customers can acquire precisely the parts that their vehicles demand.
In-store assistance for DIYers
For some things that are harder to do yourself, you can also take your car to an AutoZone and they'll do the work for you. For example, if your car is throwing codes (your dash lights for the engine or tires, maybe), you can get your codes read for free at AutoZone. They'll also help with basic tasks like changing your battery.
Regular and changing discount options
AutoZone offers both a clearance page and a page specifically for deals that change from time to time. At the time of this review, the company offered 15% off dual shocks and struts. The site was also offering 20% off all orders over $125 with free shipping added. On top of that, signing up for AutoZone's email list unlocks a $10 discount for future purchases totaling $50 or more. It's clear that savings is part of the design of this retailer and customers can expect to find solid deals regularly at AutoZone.
Generous 90-day returns
AutoZone understands that return needs can arise, and they provide hassle-free solutions. Customers have the flexibility to initiate returns either in an AutoZone store or via mail. In-store returns are no problem with eligible items, accompanied by a receipt and the original packaging, within a generous 90-day window from the date of purchase. When opting for online returns, customers will find the form within the original invoice, which should be included in the return shipment.
Top site, but some complaints from in-person shoppers
Notably, AutoZone has earned an "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau, which underscores its commitment to excellence. The review scores are a little lower than we'd like, but still higher than AutoZone's top competitor. Reports of customer frustrations have been largely regarding the in-store experiences. It's important to note that many of these depend on local staff problems (like rude staff members or inappropriate comments). However, if you're looking to shop online, you will find much more praise for AutoZone. For those seeking to bypass in-person shopping, AutoZone remains a commendable choice for getting essential auto parts with ease and convenience.
Top option for inventory and pricing
Given the benefits of shopping at AutoZone, specifically its huge inventory and wide price range, AutoZone comes out as a top competitor in the industry for auto parts. It beat out its closest competitor, our second-place pick, by having better prices for key items in automotive repair. Plus, with a generous return policy, options for in-person shopping if you're more hands-on, and better reviews than our other top contender, AutoZone clearly comes out in first place. Whether you're upgrading your vehicle, doing routine maintenance, or just want to tune up your performance, you can find exactly what you need at AutoZone and tailor the shopping experience to your car. For us, it's a win hands-down.
Car Parts was established over 28 years ago and has evolved into the leading eCommerce platform for automotive maintenance and repair. The company has expanded to include 1,800 team members, 1.2 million square feet of warehouse space, and five distribution centers across the US.
Over 1 million auto parts
Car Parts offers an extensive selection of over one million auto parts designed to fit vehicles from the year 1980 to the present. Their inventory encompasses a wide range of OEM car components, spanning from interior to exterior parts. Notably, they offer a lot of parts for replacing large exterior panels or parts like bumpers or rearview mirrors.
Huge inventory for every aspect of auto repair
Customers have the convenience of using the website's search bar to swiftly locate specific items. Alternatively, they can input their vehicle's year, make, and model to refine their search results. Whether you're looking for bodywork help, new headlights, more traditional parts like brakes, struts, and shocks, or even new engine builds, you can find everything you need at Car Parts. Their popular categories listed across the top of the site include:
Competitive prices
To do a price comparison among various auto parts retailers, we checked out the pricing for three categories: replacement components, performance enhancements, and liquids. Within these three categories, we checked out brake pads for a replacement item, shocks for a performance upgrade, and engine oil for a general liquid. In general, the prices are very competitive and offer a much wider range than at many competitors. The prices at Car Parts start at $5.49 for brake pads and go up as high as $971.91. For shocks, you can find prices from $1.49 to $3,799.99. And finally, for oil, you can find options from $7.49 to $1,827 (for a drum of oil).
Average vehicle parts pricing
Then, to check out how the prices line up for an average vehicle, we selected a 2019 Toyota Camry as our test car. The prices for each category changed slightly. Here's what you can expect at Car Parts:
Online shopping cuts costs for bodywork
Car Parts is a totally online distributor with a ton of warehouses to support their myriad of car parts. One of the places this store really shines is with its bodywork elements. It can be extremely expensive to get your bumper replaced. But sometimes accidents happen, so finding a place where you can buy the right bumper for your car at cost is amazing. Instead of paying your mechanic to be the middleman, you can get body pieces much cheaper and then just have them painted. Car Parts is particularly well stocked in this area, so if you're thinking about redoing your crunched fender, this is the place to shop.
Price match guarantee
Car Parts proudly offers a low price guarantee, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring customers receive the most competitive pricing. In line with this policy, they provide a contact number for customers to alert them when they find a product from the same manufacturer, being advertised at a lower price by competitors. Car Parts pledges to match or surpass the prices of competing products.
Lifetime replacement
A solid bonus of shopping at Car Parts is the lifetime replacement policy. This applies to any item bought at Car Parts. So, if for any reason your part purchased from Car Parts breaks down or malfunctions, you can replace it one time totally free of charge. This approach helps customers feel confident in their purchase and keeps costs down for long-term maintenance.
90-day return policy
A lenient 90-day return policy is in place, allowing customers to return products provided they are in their original condition and include all the associated components. Customers can initiate a return by either filing the necessary request online or contacting the returns department directly. Refunds are typically processed within 24-48 hours, returning the funds to the payment method initially used for the purchase.
Solid reputation with a Customer-first mindset
Car Parts has an impressive rating overall. The company holds an "A+” rating and accreditation with the Better Business Bureau. Plus, it holds a 3.6-star average out of thousands of verified user reviews. Customers in general praise the service representatives from Car Parts. Even small problems that weren't the company's fault were resolved quickly and customers were offered bonuses like 10% off when troubles arose that needed solving as a "sorry” from Car Parts. In general, there were very few problems with customers receiving the wrong or problematic parts, and customers mostly agree that Car Parts have their back when problems do pop up.
A whole new company
The bottom line? Car Parts is the proof that a company can completely turn its reputation around if it puts in the work. Once rated one of the worst sites for buying auto parts online, Car Parts is a whole new company. With price matching, lifetime replacement, and a generous 90-day return policy Car Parts is showcasing its new customer-first mindset and it's made a serious difference. On top of a huge inventory and competitive prices, you can find unique car parts here that are harder to get or more expensive elsewhere.
Best one-stop shop overall
If you're looking for the ultimate one-stop shop, Car Parts is it. They're the most well-reviewed of our top services and stand out as a place that's both user-friendly and focused on getting your car right for you every time. For these reasons, Car Parts now is one of the best options out there for auto parts. Only one thing: a lack of free shipping keeps Car Parts from the number one spot. But otherwise, for specialized needs like lights and body pieces, this is your place to go.
Advance Auto Parts is a major player in the world of car parts. As a store most people are familiar with just from driving past one of their many locations, it's almost a household name.
Stores across the U.S. and beyond
You can find their stores and branches all over the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. They're also linked with Carquest stores, which you can find in Mexico and some Caribbean islands. This company has been around since 1932 when Arthur Taubman bought his first store. They offer a list of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts and their own branded replacements, along with things like accessories, batteries, and stuff for routine vehicle upkeep.
Parts and tools for every job
Advance Auto Parts offers a truly massive inventory. The company's dedication to fulfilling all auto part needs is unmistakable, making it a dependable source for everything from minor to major auto parts. They've got parts for all kinds of vehicles, both American and from other countries, like cars, vans, SUVs, and even heavier trucks. Whether you are looking for tools for a major project, paint for body repair, or parts to upgrade or repair your vehicle, Advance Auto Parts has what you need. Navigating the Advance Auto Parts website reveals their unwavering commitment to stocking nearly every imaginable auto part.
Simplify your search
To simplify your search amid their extensive inventory, you can input specific vehicle details such as the year, make, model, and engine or your VIN number to find parts specifically for your car. This refines the product list to items tailored to your vehicle. Alternatively, you can perform a quick search or use product categories to streamline your browsing experience. Their website excels in user-friendliness, providing you with a hassle-free shopping experience.
Good comparison prices
To get an accurate price comparison across all auto parts stores, we decided to look at their price ranges for three areas of auto repair: replacement parts, performance parts, and oil and fluids. So, to that end, we picked one common item from each category to see what the pricing is like at Advance Auto Parts. The three items are replacement brake pads, performance shocks, and conventional motor oil. For the replacement brake pads, you can find prices from $3.80 to $648.13 depending on the type of vehicle you have. For performance parts, we checked out the prices for new shocks. You can get shocks anywhere from $29.99 to $199.99 depending on the car you have. Finally, we checked out the cost of conventional motor oil. There's oil from $5.49 to $60.99 depending on the size of the oil bottle and whether you get normal or synthetic.
Competitive price range for an average car
If you're wondering how the inventory and pricing change in terms of an individual's expectations, we've got you. We decided to search through those same price ranges with a "test car”. We picked out an "average car” popular on the road currently: a 2019 Toyota Camry. The prices for each category changed slightly. Here's what you can expect with a modern, average car:
Get your parts in person or online
While Advance Auto Parts offers reliable delivery from online shopping, you can also get even faster access to your parts and tools if you opt for in-store pickup. There are thousands of physical stores, so you're almost guaranteed to have a local branch within driving distance. In this case, you can have your parts in hand in 30 minutes or less. The company also extends same-day delivery services to specific regions, guaranteeing auto parts are delivered to your residence by 8 pm. The balance between online delivery options and in-person pickup makes Advance Auto Parts a particularly helpful business on our list.
Regular sales and promos change out constantly
For extra discounts, you can find the "Special Offers” page. At the time of this review, there were 40 different sales and promotions available. Some of these include things like "Save $8 When You Buy 2 Bosch ICON Front Wiper Beam Blades” or save 15% off on $35+. There were also items like "save 15% on epoxy” or 2 for $12 for de-icer fluid. The deals on this page are all timed, so they change out every few days. It's definitely worth it to check out the special offers every time you shop with Advance Auto Parts.
Loyalty rewards program
The Speed Perks program is tailored for automotive enthusiasts who frequently make auto parts purchases. Members are eligible to accumulate reward points based on their respective memberships:
Returns within 45 days
Advance Auto Parts accommodates returns for customers, offering a refund within 45 days when accompanied by proof of purchase. However, products must be in pristine condition, retaining their original packaging, unused status, and unopened packaging. If proof of purchase is unavailable, the company will offer customers an exchange or provide in-store credit.
Good scores but some concerns about returns
It comes as no surprise that Advance Auto Parts holds an impressive "A+” rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. However, customer feedback for Advance Auto Parts isn't as strong as the BBB rating. The reviews are mixed. In general, customers seem pleased with their purchases. But those who tried to complete returns were charged a fee for returning (even items in the original packaging), and some complained that the company didn't work with them to complete an exchange and found the return process to be a hassle. While this doesn't apply to everyone, it does shed some light on potential worries for returns.
All around favorite for deals
Advance Auto Parts is genuinely one of the top mainstays of auto parts shopping. With discounted pricing and a multitude of delivery and pickup options, Advance Auto Parts unquestionably stands out as the third-place choice for those in need of a dependable automotive parts supplier. It's local and online, so you can choose your shopping style and experience. Plus, you can limit shopping to only items that fit your specific car, which is ideal if you're more unfamiliar with buying car parts. Advance Auto Parts gets an excellent rating among the auto parts stores we evaluated.
Back in 1925, a bunch of independent auto parts sellers gathered in Detroit to create the National Automotive Parts Association (NAPA). Their goal was straightforward: make it easier for folks and businesses relying on cars and trucks to get the parts they needed.
Half a million parts across thousands of stores
Today, the NAPA Network offers over 500,000 different parts, available through 57 distribution centers, 6,000+ NAPA Auto Parts stores, and 16,000+ NAPA Auto Care centers all across the United States. NAPA Auto Parts stores and Auto Care centers continue to connect skilled auto techs, DIY mechanics, and regular drivers with quality parts, aftermarket add-ons, and car care products to keep their vehicles and garage gear running safely and smoothly.
Services for every vehicle type
Browsing at NAPA's website is a breeze. You can start by looking through the "all products” tab, which is broken down into subcategories with tons of car parts to browse through. You can find a selection of replacement parts, OEM items, tools and equipment, paint and bodywork items, farm and fleet items, and even RV, marine engines, or sport items. The inclusion of RV and marine items is unique, helping NAPA stand out from its competitors. In addition, you can also browse through the "accessories” tab which includes a wide variety of shopping categories:
Then each of these items is broken down into further groups to help you find exactly what you need. Now, if you prefer to shop more directly, you can use the search bar and the search-by-vehicle feature to narrow down only items that will fit your vehicle. This works no matter whether you're looking to find parts for a car, boat, RV, or anything in between.
Wide range of prices with bulk purchase options
To get an accurate price comparison from NAPA against other companies in our review, we checked out three items at every retailer. First, we looked at a repair item: new brake pads. Second, we checked out a performance item: new shocks. Finally, we checked out a general item for vehicle maintenance: motor oil. At NAPA the prices for brake pads range from $7.49 to $1,900 with all the items currently in stock. For shocks, you can find prices from $22.99 to $1,060. Finally, for motor oil, you can find options from $5.99 to $13,280. It's worth noting that the highest price is for 380 gallons, so it's more appropriate for a large mechanic shop. But, if you need that much oil, you can find it here.
Pricing for an average car
If you're wondering how the inventory and pricing change if you put in an "average car” popular on the road currently, so are we. We selected a 2019 Toyota Camry as our test car to give you a more specific price range:
In general, prices for many items are a bit higher than other retailers, but for just Toyota items, the prices are right on par with the industry.
Local and online services
Like a few of the other retailers in this review, you can enjoy the services of NAPA from the comfort of your home or by going into one of their brick-and-mortar locations. You can have your order ready in as little as 30 minutes if you choose to grab it locally, which can be a bonus for those who need parts in a pinch. Or if you feel like you want some expert advice, you can check in with one of their workers to get your DIY mechanic questions handled.
Free 1-day shipping on most inventory
In terms of discounts, you can score free 1-day shipping on over 160,000 different products. You don't need to do anything special to score the free shipping, just add your item to the cart and if it qualifies (as over 98% of their inventory does), you'll be able to get completely free shipping on every order. On top of that, there are a host of deals available on the front page of the NAPA website. At the time of this review, NAPA was running a special on "performer brakes” and 52% off windshield wash. These deals change from time to time, so it's worth checking back with NAPA if you're looking for low prices.
Customer-focused return policy in 30 days
If you buy items from NAPA and have them delivered to your doorstep, you can return them without any extra cost using UPS. You get a prepaid label from NAPA anytime you want to make a return, which is an insanely good policy compared to auto parts stores. Within 30 days of receiving items purchased from NAPA, customers can return any of the following items with no hassle:
While the return window isn't as long as some others in our evaluation, it's designed to make sure the return process is as easy as possible, which is outstanding.
Reviews don't match their promises
NAPA sounds too good to be true on paper, and maybe it is. According to the Better Business Bureau, NAPA only has a "D-” rating. Further, the company doesn't do so hot with third-party reviews. For example, the average rating across multiple third-party review sites is just 1.5 stars out of 5. Customers complain that the shipping wasn't actually free on the items they ordered, that the website isn't as easy to use as it should be, and that many items were often out of stock. There were also complaints about rude customer service and difficulty processing the free returns. While there are some good reviews saying that the services at NAPA were high-quality and the parts were perfect matches, it's worth keeping in mind some of the concerns, especially if free shipping and returns are two of the perks that get you to buy or change your mind.
Solid choice, but room for improvement
While this site is a standout for its wide inventory that includes both marine and RV vehicles, the concerns about the ratings and reviews pull NAPA back from what would have been the top spot in this review. Because of how low the reviews are and the "D-” rating from the BBB, NAPA falls to a 4-star service instead of the 5 stars it might have deserved. Considering the high points of this service we hope they put some work into improving the site experience overall. They've got room to improve, and if they do, they could be one of the best sites in the industry for buying auto parts.
Established in 1989, Buy Auto Parts (BAP) has evolved from its origins as a steering parts manufacturer and auto parts distributor. Located in San Diego, California, the company now operates exclusively online.
Wide range of OEM and aftermarket parts
When customers explore the extensive inventory at BAP, they can discover a wide range of both OEM and aftermarket car parts suitable for their vehicles. Buyers can rest assured that they are investing in the highest quality auto parts at wholesale prices, with the added assurance of full warranties accompanying all parts. The company offers a Guaranteed Exact Fit promise on all their parts, and in case of any issues, they provide comprehensive round-trip shipping coverage.
Huge selection could use more organizational features
The company's commitment extends to ensuring that its list of vehicle makes and models remains current. Whether your vehicle is a recent model or a classic, Buy Auto Parts proves to be an exceptional destination for parts. Navigating their extensive online store is a breeze, and the most straightforward method to locate the required parts is by providing your vehicle's year, make, and model. This allows Buy Auto Parts to tailor its inventory to meet your needs. The only thing that isn't great about the site is that there isn't a filter to organize the items by price. Given the truly massive inventory, this could be a bit of a problem. Customers will be left sifting through 600+ options in just the $10 to $20 category with no way to organize those from least to greatest.
Higher than-average prices
To get an accurate price comparison among all auto stores, we decided to look at their price ranges for repair parts like brake pads, performance upgrades like new shocks, and general maintenance with liquids like regular motor oil. The prices for this site are approximate due to the huge range of items in the inventory. Brake pads range from $10 to $500, shocks are offered at BAP for $10 to $2,000, and you can only find 1 kind of oil for $82.
Prices for an average car
Now, for prices that reflect individual vehicles, we decided to search through those same price ranges with a "test car”. The average car we picked to reflect the most drivers was the 2019 Toyota Camry. The prices for each category change to:
Online shopping only
Buy Auto Parts prides itself on maintaining competitive prices by exclusively serving online customers. This way, they don't have to deal with the costs associated with brick-and-mortar storefronts. They go a step further with their price matching policy, enabling them to match or beat any competitor's pricing for identical brands, subject to certain exclusions. However, in general, the prices at Buy Auto Parts don't come across as being any cheaper than other sites on our list.
Free shipping on $99+
At Buy Auto parts, you'll get free shipping on orders exceeding $99. While all parts are eligible for overnight shipping, the specific costs are contingent on factors like order quantity and the shipping destination. For standard shipping, the delivery time typically spans between 1 to 5 days. However, some customers have voiced concerns regarding orders placed for parts that, as it turned out, were not in stock. Such situations were made worse by extended wait times when attempting to contact customer service.
60-day returns with no fees
The returns process at BAP is accommodating, allowing returns within 60 days from the original purchase date. The website features a dedicated form within the returns section, streamlining the return process. This form serves a dual purpose, also helping customers make returns for parts that have been installed but remain under a one-year warranty. Notably, Buy Auto Parts doesn't charge you any restocking fees on returns, a customer-friendly gesture.
Popular for their warranty and guarantee
BAP holds an "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau, a testament to their dedication to quality and service. Their commitment to making sure parts fit your car is a favorite among reviewers. Plus, the company has impressive reviews from customers with an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 on multiple third-party review sites. However, there are a handful of more recent reviews that complain about items being broken after shipping or parts that didn't fit their vehicle despite the guarantee that states this won't happen. Though in the grand scheme of things, these reviews are much fewer and further between than at other auto parts sites.
Great inventory and stellar reviews
Buy Auto Parts says it differentiates itself in the automotive market through its competitive pricing and a steadfast commitment to affordability, but the prices just don't reflect that claim. Although there is a price match guarantee in place, the prices at BAP are still higher than the competition so it will require reaching out to them to get a lower price. While the company has a great reputation from reviewers, it doesn't quite reach the heights of our top options, mostly for its limited inventory in essentials like motor oil. However, if you need a wide variety, you'll find a lot of inventory here, so it's definitely worth taking a look the next time you need auto parts.
Founded in 2008, Parts Geek is an auto parts retailer that provides a range of both OEM and aftermarket auto parts. However, if you value a seamless online browsing experience, you might find shopping at Parts Geek to be rather challenging.
Website could use an update
Their website exhibits a dated appearance, reminiscent of the 90s, characterized by text-heavy pages, a lack of user-friendly search categories, and a somewhat distracting layout. To remain competitive with other auto parts retailers that offer a more user-friendly interface and easier access to the desired auto parts, Parts Geek's website would greatly benefit from a comprehensive update.
Decent inventory, but lower stock than some
While browsing the company's inventory, it becomes evident that Parts Geek is more competitive than some in this review. Their inventory appears less comprehensive when compared to some of their competitors in the auto parts industry, but it still has results for our test car, the 2019 Toyota Camry, which shows that Parts Geek works to keep their inventory up to date with more modern cars. However, just a brief glance shows that Parts Geek is fairly competitive in terms of offering a wide range of cars from a variety of years, so in that regard, you can expect a solid inventory. There are just fewer items overall when compared to our top options.
Competitive prices despite lower inventory
To compare prices at Parts Geek with other sites in our evaluation, we checked out three categories of car parts and their respective price ranges. It's also worth noting that you need to input your car to get results for your search, so we used our test car, the 2019 Toyota Camry, to explore pricing at Parts Geek. First, we looked at replacement parts like brake pads, then we checked out a performance part like new shocks, and finally, we looked at something for standard maintenance: motor oil. The prices for brake pads start at $14.97 to $87.58. For shocks, you can find items from $28.97 to $110.95. Finally for motor oil, pricing goes from $8.97 to $187.97. These are fairly competitive prices, and though there aren't as many options, you can find decent savings at Parts Geek.
No formal price guarantee
While Parts Geek claims to search the web to provide competitively low prices, they lack a formal low-price guarantee, unlike many of their counterparts. This raises questions about their commitment to consistently offering the best prices. Customers seeking specific parts could potentially obtain price matches at better-rated retailers that maintain a more professional image.
30-day returns aren't customer-focused
The return policy at Parts Geek stipulates that customers get an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) number for all items being returned within a 30-day window. However, customers are responsible for all shipping costs during their return. This means that if Parts Geek ships an entirely different part from what was ordered, the customer is responsible for the return shipping expenses.
Solid scores, but complaints about returns are common
Parts Geek holds an "A+” rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, with numerous customers reporting swift shipping and overall satisfaction with their orders. The company holds an average rating of 3 stars out of 5 across four different third-party review sites, which isn't bad. However, much of the negative feedback centers around the requirements of their return process, which is unsurprising given that the shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer.
Mid-tier site with pros and cons
While Parts Geek may indeed offer affordable auto parts, other higher-rated auto part suppliers offer competitive pricing alongside a more user-friendly online shopping experience and a customer-friendly return policy. Therefore, with nothing super exciting standing out about Parts Geek except that it has all the standard items in stock, it comes out right in the middle of the pack for this review. There are definitely worse places out there to buy car parts, but there are better options too.
With a history spanning over four decades, Autohauz AZ is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, establishing itself as a prominent name in the auto parts industry. Their user-friendly website is a testament to their professional approach.
Focus is on European models
One striking feature of Autohauz AZ is its comprehensive inventory of vehicle makes and models. This inclusivity has earned the company positive reviews from satisfied customers, cementing its status as a reputable source for auto parts. However, it's worth noting that this retailer focuses more on European models. While it does offer parts for other cars, you may find a far more limited selection for models that aren't built in Europe.
Shop any vehicle with confidence
The initial impression of Autohous AZ is that this company knows what it's doing, but they also really like European cars. On top of offering a range of car parts, their front page prominently displays the companies that you can get OEM parts for which includes the harder-to-find Euro brands like BMW and Mercedes. However, Autohaus AZ does not exclusively serve luxury car owners. They also provide auto parts for more common vehicles such as Toyotas, Subarus, Fords, and Buicks.
Straightforward search
To streamline the search for specific items, you can utilize a form on the homepage, inputting your car's year, make, and model, or opt for the straightforward search function, and you can trust that the parts Autohaus AZ shows you are specifically tailored for your vehicle. The only difference between this site and others is that you can't browse until you've put in your car's details. So, browsing the entire inventory isn't possible with Autohaus AZ, but it does guarantee you get only the results you need for your vehicle and only OEM parts. There are no used items here.
Totally online service
This is a totally online service, so you don't have to worry about extra prices for overhead. Autohaus AZ focuses on providing customers with OEM parts directly from the manufacturer. They started out servicing just Volvos but now offer a variety of other vehicles for online shoppers and DIY car enthusiasts who want to avoid expensive mechanic fees on notoriously expensive European cars.
Price range examination
To get an accurate price comparison among all auto stores, we decided to look at their price ranges for three areas of auto repair: replacement parts, performance parts, and oil and fluids. For consistency, we checked the same item in each category at every retailer. For replacement parts, we looked at the options for brake pads; for performance parts, we checked out shocks; and for oils and fluids, we just checked out normal (not diesel) motor oil.
More inventory for European cars
Since you can't browse their inventory without putting in your vehicle, these prices for the review are based on our "test model” which is an average car: the 2019 Toyota Camry. Starting with the brake pads, unfortunately Autohaus AZ doesn't have any inventory for the Toyota Camry, nor does it have any shocks, and there are only three items from $8.59 to $15.09. Out of curiosity, we tried one of the European cars listed on the front page to see if the results changed. Once we put in a 2019 BMW 330i, there were more results. For example, brake pads ranged from $124 to $247 for the BMW. For shocks, you can find prices from $26.99 to $369.99. Finally, for oil, you can find prices from $9.95 to $57.99.
Fast shipping is free on orders $99+
Autohaus AZ excels in offering many of its products at discounted prices. The company actively advertises the most competitive rates, particularly on genuine Volvo and Saab parts. For those whose orders exceed $99, the company extends the benefit of free shipping. If the order total falls below this threshold, a flat-rate fee of $7.99 is applied for shipping. Autohaus AZ dispatches orders in a remarkably short timeframe, typically taking five days or less.
3-year warranty and no fees for returns
One standout feature of Autohaus AZ is its unwavering commitment to product quality and customer satisfaction. All parts offered by the company are covered by an impressive 3-year warranty in case something breaks. In the event of returns or exchanges, customers are granted a generous window of 45 days to initiate the process. Autohaus AZ distinguishes itself from competitors by not imposing restocking fees and priding itself on expedited processing.
Feedback shows this site is falling behind
Autohaus AZ used to hold a top-notch reputation with an "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau, but the company's BBB page wasn't available at the time of this review. However, according to a range of negative reviews recently, Autohaus AZ is losing popularity with its customers. The complaints include parts not matching cars when they arrive, which is frustrating since the site forces customers to start the process by putting in their vehicles. Many of these complaints were from owners of European cars, so even though Autohaus AZ specializes in those vehicles, it's still sending parts that don't work. Given these concerns and the reviews noting how hard it is to return the items, it might be worth it to find a different spot to shop for your European car parts.
Not best-in-class in any category
The combination of a generous return policy and a comprehensive 3-year warranty on all products should position Autohauz AZ as a dependable and secure option for auto parts shopping. However, considering that reviews counter those benefits by noting poor merchandise fits, and difficulty actually making those returns within the warranty period, the site starts to fall behind. While it used to be one of the top auto parts retailers out there, now we hesitate to recommend it quite as highly as before.
Pep Boys, with an almost century-long history in auto parts retail, has, in recent years, focused on expanding its service and tire centers across the United States. While they've earned a reputation for their service centers, they also maintain an online retail shop with a variety of auto parts. This creates a unique balance between DIY car part shopping and the option to take your vehicle in to an expert for maintenance.
Solid selection, but no search by car feature
Pep Boys' online store offers a user-friendly shopping experience, aided by an efficient search function and well-structured product categories. Compared to some competitors, Pep Boys may offer fewer discounted items, though, which could be a problem for auto enthusiasts on a budget. Although the quality of auto parts is generally reliable, customers might find themselves paying slightly more. However, the site isn't the most intuitive. In order to start shopping, you have to select an item. But before you can proceed, you'll have to pick your local Pep Boys location. Then, you have to enter your car's information to continue.
No prices due to missing inventory
To get an accurate price comparison among all auto stores, we decided to look at their price ranges for three areas of auto repair: replacement parts, performance parts, and oil and fluids. Keep in mind that you can only search by a specific car at Pep Boys, so all the prices are based on our test car, the 2019 Toyota Camry. Unfortunately, when we went through all the effort to search, there weren't any brake pads at Pep Boys for the Toyota Camry. Similarly, there were zero results for shocks for our test car. And, disappointingly, the same turned up for motor oil. So, finding prices can be a little difficult at Pep Boys online since many of the items that are standard just aren't in stock.
Mechanic help in person and online
If you do manage to find your item at Pep Boys, you can easily order online. And, since Pep Boys is also an in-person auto parts retailer, you can choose to go with in-store pickup instead. For customers who want to get their orders more quickly, Pep Boys has a network of over 920 brick-and-mortar locations where they can conveniently buy online and pick up in-store. You can also easily make online appointments for in-person help if you decide you don't want to DIY and would rather let the Pep Boys professionals take care of your car.
Coupons and free shipping available
For some cool discounts, you should definitely check out Pep Boys' savings page. They often have coupons that can help you save money on your desired products. Just remember, they don't do price matching, so what you see listed is what you pay. And when it comes to shipping, Pep Boys calculates it based on your order's cost, the weight of the items, and their size. To snag free shipping, you'll need to spend over $75, which usually isn't hard to do with auto parts.
30-day returns
Regarding returns, Pep Boys offers a fairly standard policy. Customers are entitled to full refunds for new and unused items returned within 30 days, provided they have the receipt. In the absence of a receipt, returns are only eligible for exchanges. While this isn't a stand-out policy, it's nice that you are able to return items in person to avoid any return shipping charges.
Not your ideal first stop for auto parts
While some customers have reported unsatisfactory interactions with Pep Boys' employees, especially when contacting them via phone or in person, the company enjoys a favorable "A+” rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. However, if you check out the user reviews, customers have given Pep Boys an average rating of 2 stars. Many of the reviews are related to the in-person services, which means that one of the perks of going to Pep Boys (the in-person help), may not actually be a positive thing for many customers. That, along with long wait times and trouble with some returns, highlights that Pep Boys might not deserve to be your first stop for auto parts shopping.
Not impressive
At the end of the day, while Pep Boys looks reliable on paper with the "A+” rating from the BBB, the fact that its website is missing some of the most standard items from one of the most popular cars in the US says a lot about what you can expect in terms of auto parts. On top of that, they don't really offer any distinctive features that set them apart as a top retailer. With their longstanding presence in the industry, Pep Boys gets the job done for some but frustrates others with lackluster customer service.
Established in 2010, Get All Parts is a relatively new player in the auto parts industry, differentiating itself by exclusively offering aftermarket parts rather than OEM components. While its inventory includes over 150,000 parts, it may be a deal-breaker for some customers if OEM parts aren't part of the deal. But, they help ease your mind with a 5-year warranty which can keep any worries at bay about getting used parts or parts that aren't directly from the manufacturer.
Wide range of items, but slow website
Their product range covers both interior and exterior auto parts, alongside fluids and maintenance accessories. By entering their vehicle's year, make, and model into a form on the website's homepage, shoppers can effortlessly narrow down a curated list of products compatible with their specific vehicles. Get All Parts stands out for its competitive pricing across its inventory of aftermarket components. However, the site is a bit cluttered and is slow to load, so browsing at Get All Parts may be more of a hassle than with other places. It will certainly take longer.
No prices for standard parts
We wanted to figure out how much the prices at Get All Parts were compared to other retailers, so we checked out replacement parts like brake pads, performance parts like new shocks, and general maintenance items like motor oil. However, when we tried to look at brake pads, we found that there weren't any options for those items at Get All Parts. Instead, they only offer brake foot pedals. We ran into the same problem with shocks. There are some pieces for shocks on the site, but not the actual shocks or struts themselves. Disappointingly, for oil, there were also no items for sale. There were plenty of mechanical components that had to do with the oil systems, but no oil itself. Considering that all three of these items are staples at other sites, it was very concerning not to find any of them at Get All Parts (maybe they don't actually have "all” parts).
Online only but no OEM
Get All Parts is a 100% online site offering aftermarket parts. While this may be a good way to get deals on parts, you might be missing out on a lot of items as showcased in our price comparison. Since none of the items are OEM, they come in pieces, sometimes missing key components like the shocks themselves. Overall, the savings might not be worth it at Get All Parts.
Price match guarantee
The company offers a price match guarantee. By showing a competitor's lower-priced product, along with the corresponding web address, the customer service team will apply a price discount to the order.
60-day returns with a 5-year warranty
Get All Parts offers a 60-day return window for any new, unused items. The company also provides a five-year limited warranty for their products. In case of any issues or defects, Get All Parts offers a straightforward four-step process for submitting claims. The process involves contacting customer support to provide detailed information about the faulty part, the onset of issues, and the order number.
Solid rating, but no reviews to back it up
Get All Parts has earned an "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau. However, the company has almost no reviews out there on third-party review sites or otherwise. So, we're unable to get a clear read on how the company performs outside of the "A+” score from the BBB. The only thing we have to go on is the limited inventory, which wasn't impressive.
Get All Parts... doesn't actually have all parts
While Get All Parts offers a competitive range of aftermarket components and prides itself on a straightforward price match guarantee, it doesn't particularly stand out in comparison to other auto parts suppliers. It's missing a bunch of standard inventory items for basic repairs and doesn't even offer engine oil. As such, it receives a fairly poor rating in this review despite the "A+” rating from the BBB. Higher-rated websites tend to offer more extensive product inventories, offer OEM parts, and provide more generous return policies, all while enjoying positive customer feedback. Get All Parts gets none of our praise or recommendation.
Auto Barn has a rich history dating back to 1957 when it first started as H&M Auto Parts in Brooklyn, New York. As the retail DIY market grew during the 1970s, Auto Barn adapted by opening more stores aimed at both professional installers and DIY enthusiasts. Family-owned throughout their journey, Auto Barn has expanded online, now reaching customers across the United States, Canada, and beyond. Despite their growth, Auto Barn remains committed to their core principles of providing a competitive selection of brand-name auto parts and accessories at the most affordable prices.
Hard to find what you need
Auto Barn offers an inventory that includes a wide array of car accessories, auto parts, car care products, as well as oils and additives. However, one place that Auto Barn doesn't stand out is the website layout and text display. In general, the site comes across as old-fashioned and somewhat hard to navigate. For example, while you can browse by department or by brand, you can't browse your car specifically like at other retailers. This, more than anything, is particularly disappointing since it makes it hard to know if specific parts or items go safely into your particular make and model. This means shopping at Auto Barn requires extra research you don't have to do at other sites.
Missing inventory
To get an accurate price comparison across all auto stores, we decided to look at their price ranges for three areas of auto repair: replacement parts, performance parts, and oil and fluids. While we usually also check out the prices for an average car, we couldn't do that at Auto Barn due to the missing car search feature. However, starting with our regular price comparison, we found even more concerns.
Where's the pricing?
Auto Barn doesn't offer pricing on its own website. Instead, for things like brake pads, you have to navigate to the Auto Barn eBay store. At the time of this review, the eBay store was closed for one month, so the pricing wasn't available at all. The same problem occurred when we checked out the performance shocks. The only item we could find a price for on the website itself was oil which ran from $11.95 to $19.95. Given the fact that you can't buy many basic auto parts at Auto Barn (at least at the time of this review), it might be safer to go with a retailer that's more reliable.
Local shopping is limited
While there are local locations to buy, you have to be in the Brooklyn area to take advantage of it. And since the online shopping experience is lackluster and based on eBay, there's some concern about the authenticity of the items. Most sites that sell real OEM parts will have them shipped directly from the manufacturer. The fact that eBay is being used as a "middleman” of sorts raises a few eyebrows.
Regular discounts and promos
For the items we could find on the website, the majority of these listings are on sale, making their pricing competitive and reassuring for budget-conscious customers. During the time of this review, they featured a discount code providing $10 off for orders exceeding $99 as an additional option for savings. However, considering the limitations of many auto parts, it may not be worth the sales to browse here.
Free shipping on $69+
Auto Barn offers free shipping for orders surpassing $69, but orders totaling less than this amount incur a flat-rate shipping cost of $8. However, some customers have reported slow shipping times attributed to sluggish order processing, which could be an area for potential improvement. It is also possible that some of the options for shipping might change if you shop through their eBay store when it's open, so there's some confusion there.
30-day returns
Auto Barn gives customers a 30-day window to return items from the date of order receipt. However, to initiate the return process, customers must complete a "return authorization” form. Neglecting to do so can potentially lead to processing delays and may also result in a 20% restocking fee. This fee may similarly be applied if the returned items are received in a less-than-new condition, rendering them un-resellable.
Reputation is sliding down
Auto Barn used to hold an "A-” rating from the Better Business Bureau, indicating a relatively good standing overall. However, recently it has completely lost this rating and is now an "NR'' business instead. On top of that, customer feedback is less favorable. Some customers have reported receiving parts that do not fit their vehicles and have expressed dissatisfaction with Auto Barn's customer service, describing it as unhelpful. There is also a string of recent complaints about shipping times and difficulty with returns, so it may just be better to listen to the reviews and find an auto parts store that focuses more on customer satisfaction.
Missing features make this our lowest-scoring retailer
Considering all the problems we found at Auto Barn, it's clear that this retailer has a lower reputation for a reason. The slide from "A-” to "NR” is particularly concerning as well as the range of customer complaints about this site. Given that it doesn't have many items that are standard at other retailers, and no way to search for parts by your vehicle type or VIN number, it's probably safer to stay away from Auto Barn. Your road safety is the most important thing and getting the wrong parts for your car can make or break a build.
Visiting an auto parts store online lets you find and check that you're getting the right parts for the right car. Using features like VIN number searches and helpful online search tools, you can take the frustration out of auto parts shopping and enjoy it from the comfort of your own home. Whether you're just looking for a new set of tires, a turbo kit for your already over-taxed hatchback, or the perfect wrench in metric sizes for those Euro cars, you can find it now at the click of a button.
You might be surprised to know that the auto parts you find online are often less expensive than the ones you find in a store - even if the website and store are the same company. That's because there's more competition online, and less overhead attached to the individual car part. And not only are the prices cheaper, you can have them delivered straight to your door.
Armed with your car parts, and your favorite car repair YouTuber, you can be on your way to DIY car repair in no time. However, it's important to recognize that not all auto parts stores are the same.
You want to make sure that you can find the best auto parts, whether you're looking at new "from the factory” or certified pre-owned items. You can find tons of deals online too, but making sure you can trust an auto parts store is important - both for your wallet and your safety.
Not sure where to start your online search for auto parts? Don't worry - we've completed a full review and ranking of all the best auto parts stores out there today. Here are some basic criteria that might help you narrow the field:
To make sure your car stays running smoothly, Top Consumer Reviews is here to give you all the insights on the best auto parts stores on the market. We hope this helps you get started with your DIY mechanic shop right in the safety of your own garage. Soon, your friends will be coming to you for the quick fixes, since you'll be an auto parts expert. Happy driving!
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